“I don't want a lot for Christmas

There is just one thing I need

I don't care about the presents

Underneath the Christmas tree

I just want you for my own

More than you could ever know

Make my wish come true oh

All I want for Christmas is you”

-All I Want For Christmas, Mariah Carey

A lot of people probably just take these lyrics as something to dance and sing your heart out to during the Christmas season, but what about people who consider it as something more? Something literal.

Personally, I have more junk in my possession than I even know. I randomly find doo-dads that I didn’t know about literally every time I clean my room. For me, I don’t want anything material for Christmas. As the holiday approaches, it’s something I have to tell people over and over. Just the other day, I was asked what I want and my instinct is to say nothing, but I know the person asking will always find something to give, regardless of what I say. The go-to: gift cards. You can’t go wrong with gifting money. But the thing is, I don’t NEED anything. Most of what I end up buying will eventually go to waste, though I admit I’ve had a couple things in my Amazon shopping cart for a while now (who doesn’t??).

Honestly, when I say I want nothing, I mean it. I don’t need material possessions to have a happy holiday season. I’d love nothing more than to spend time with the people I love, doing things we enjoy doing together. This year, Christmas at my house won’t be spent playing with new toys, but by enjoying each other’s company. Spending time with my family, friends, and partner makes me happier than any present could. Okay, I admit opening presents does bring a certain joy, but there’s just something about spending quality time with loved ones that warms the soul.

I really don’t want a lot for Christmas. Instead of giving me something, how about we do something together? We can watch holiday movies, go sledding and play in snow, bake festive cookies, and warm up with hot chocolate. You can surprise me with a date instead of a gift!

So I think I speak for most who admit to wanting nothing for Christmas when I say that I just want your company! I won’t deny a gift from the ones I love and the ones who love me, but I need nothing more than your companionship this holiday season.

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah/Ramadan/Kwanzaa, Joyous Solstice (and whatever else you may be celebrating this winter season), and a Happy New Year!